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Dog Training Courses - Which Method is Right for You?

By Barry Sowder

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Published: 26Oct2009
Word count: 509
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Dog training courses can mean the difference between having a happy dog and happy life - or not. Dogs are happier, healthier and safer when they have loving boundaries set for them and that's what dog training courses help you learn to set for your dog.

First let's take a look at the overall methods that dog training courses use. If you find a method that suits you best, you will know the type of course that will best for you and your dog.

Types of Dog Training Courses

Reward Training: Emphasizes positive reinforcement -- instead of punishing or yelling at your dog for what you don't want him to do, you reward your dog for doing what you want him to do. Rewards consist of praise and petting as well as treats. Treats are especially used in the early learning stages of a new behavior.

Dog Whispering: Dog Whispering is more of a general philosophy than a method. This is a more advanced method that should taken on by dog lovers who feel very confident in their connection with their dogs and are interested in learning about canine behaviors, motivation and body language.

Choke or Check Collar Training: Choke collars are collars that slip over a dogs head onto it neck and tighten down on the dogs neck when it pulls too hard on its leash. Choke collars were designed for professional trainers and for limited use - there is a health risk to your dog's neck and trachea when using them. In general, dog training courses that emphasize choke or check collar training are not recommended.

Prong Collar Training: Don't even think about this method. A prong collar has metal ends that stick into a dog's flesh and digs into its neck when it pulls on its leash. Inhumane period!

Head Collar Training: Very humane collar that gently redirects a dog's attention or the way you want him to go instead of punishing or hurting him as the two methods directly above do. Very effective especially when used with Reward Training.

Clicker Training: This method takes a hand-held clicker, which oddly enough makes a "clicking" noise when squeezed. During clicker training, a dog is reinforced in behaviors with doggie treats paired with the clicking noise. At some point, the treats will be eliminated and the dog will know it has done something right simply by hearing the clicking noise. Very effective.

Electric Collar Training: As the name implies, this type of training involves your dog wearing a collar in which you are able to administer an electric shock to discourage certain behaviors. this method should only be used by professional trainers in the most extreme circumstances. If you are reading this blog, collar training is not for you -- or your dog.

Ultrasonic Whistle Training: You know of the dog whistles that you can't hear but a dog can - right? This method uses these whistles to get your dog's attention as well as to train him. You will need to be trained in this method first.

Barry Sowder owns an older rescued terrier-mix, Spencer, and a young pure-bred Collie, Olivia. Find the best dog training courses for you and your dog at his blog, available at: => http://www.dogtrainingcourses-1.com/

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